Granite composite sinks have grown more popular today, thanks to their look and durability. They are also less expensive and easier to maintain than regular granite.
These sinks resist normal wear and tear and are heat-resistant as well. They come in a variety of color options, black being one of them.
Black granite composite sinks come with protective coatings. The coatings protect the sink from natural stones and scratches.
Despite having all the mentioned great features, a sink is a sink. It will get dirty after regular use and require cleaning.
In this article, we discuss several ways to clean a black granite composite sink and keep it looking new for longer.
How to Clean a Black Granite Composite Sink
Step 1 – Ready Your Supplies
To clean the sink effectively, you’ll require a vinegar solution, baking soda, and mineral oil. These supplies are easy to get from your local food store. It’s even possible that you have them at your home already.
Why baking soda, mineral oils, and vinegar solution?
Baking soda and vinegar are safe elements that help eliminate dirt from black granite sinks softly and effortlessly. On the other hand, mineral oil helps to maintain your sink’s shine and luster.
Granite is susceptible to harsh chemicals as they tend to weaken and damage it with time, but this mix of cleaners is safe. You’ve got no reason to worry.
Although vinegar and baking soda solution does no harm to the sink, do not let it overstay on it. Remember that vinegar is acidic and might cause some minor issues if left to sit on your sink for long.
Apply the mixture to all troubled areas and scrub. If cleaning the entire sink, cover it entirely with the solution and let it sit for a few minutes and then scrub everything off.
You need to note that you should never use wire or steel wool brushes to scrub the sink. These materials can scratch it and leave long-lasting damage. Use a soft cleaning rag or a soft bristle brush.
Step 2 – Prepare the Sink
Before you start the cleaning process, empty your sink and remove all debris or food scraps that might be present. Flush it with hot water and scrub with dish soap as well. After that, rinse it and dry it with a dishrag or paper towel.
Step 3 – Apply Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda on all discolored and stained areas of your black granite composite sink. Although mildly abrasive, baking soda is natural and, therefore, safe to use on your sink.
Step 4 – Use Vinegar Solution
Here you need to mix vinegar with baking soda for excellent results. Allow them to combine and fizz up. If tempted to use less vinegar, get a spray bottle and mix equal portions of water and vinegar in it.
Spray the vinegar solution over the baking soda-applied areas.
The solution is highly effective in areas with hard stains and near the drain. You, therefore, need to use a soft sponge to scrub these areas gently and gradually.
After scrubbing your sink well and for some time, rinse it with warm water and then dry it with a paper towel or a soft washcloth.
Step 5 – Apply Mineral Oil
After cleaning and drying your sink, it’s time to use mineral oil. After cleaning, granite can look very dull. Applying mineral oil to it brings back the shine in it and thus extremely important.
So, how do you go about it?
Pour a tablespoon of mineral oil o a soft cloth and rub the oil into your sink in a circular motion. If necessary, add more oil as you go. All you need to do is ensure that the cloth holds the oil evenly and doesn’t get too thick.
What Not to Use on Your Black Granite Composite Sink
Although you need to keep your granite sink looking great at all times, there are things you shouldn’t use when cleaning it. This is because they’ll one brings more harm than good.
Listed below are things you should avoid if you want to keep your sink at its best.
Harsh Chemicals
Although composite sinks can withstand dropped pans or crockery, they can’t survive harsh chemicals. They’ll damage the color of your sink and leave it in a far worse condition than it was before.
Some of the chemicals to avoid include sodium hydroxide, hydrochloride, sulphuric acid, and ammonia. It’s always wise to check with the manufacturer if in doubt or stick to products designed specifically for a black composite sink.
Abrasive Materials
When cleaning a granite composite sink, only use non-abrasive materials. Things like steel wool and scouring pads will leave scratch marks, something you’d rather not see happening.
Always clean your sink with a soft sponge to protect the exterior.
Other Things to Avoid
- Heat
Some composite sinks can be damaged by heat. You should therefore avoid placing hot pots and pans on your sink’s surface.
Another way to avoid this problem is by purchasing a high-quality sink that is heat-resistant.
- Leaving Wet Sponges on Your Sink
Leaving a wet sponge on the sink is a habit that most people find difficult to stop. You however need to stop it as by doing this, you are exposing your sink to limescale deposits and ugly water marks.
Continuing with this irritating behavior will only make you spend a lot of time trying to clean it up.
- Leaving Food Stains to Sit
Some types of food and drinks can satin your black granite composite sink very easily. Avoid leaving such stains for clean up later. The earlier you remove the stains, the better.
Final Words
Following the above cleaning regimen will help you keep your black granite composite sink looking as good as new. Just make it a routine to clean it with soap and warm water, and you won’t have to worry about cleaning it frequently. When cleaning the sink, avoid using elements that harm granite, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.